Struggling in Gym Class? Coordination and Sensory Integration Therapy

When you see your child struggle to catch a ball or jump rope in PE class, the first thought is often, "Should I sign them up for more sports?" But a hard time in gym class can't be explained by athletic ability alone. Behind it, there may be an important skill called "coordination."

What is coordination?

Simply put, coordination is the ability to get different parts of the body to move together like a "team." A child who struggles with coordination can sometimes look like a child who just doesn't like exercise. See if you notice any of these signs.

• Timing is off when catching or throwing a ball
• Finds rhythmic activities like jumping rope especially hard
• Movements look clumsy or stiff
• Lacks confidence in physical activities and may avoid playing with peers

Sensory integration therapy starts with "a body ready to move"

If practicing motor skills over and over isn't getting anywhere, it's time to check whether the basic senses are well connected. Sensory integration therapy focuses on the step before "learning" a sport: building a body that's ready to move.

1. Laying the sensory foundation — First, it awakens proprioception (sensing where the body is) and the vestibular sense (keeping balance).
2. Natural regulation — Instead of forcing a child to memorize skills, it helps the brain process body sensations naturally.
3. Regaining confidence — Once handling their body feels easier, children can naturally start to enjoy gym class.

How is it different from adapted physical education?

Sensory integration therapy focuses on the foundations of movement. Its goal is to improve the brain's ability to process sensory information and plan movement, building the root skills of movement such as balance and eye-hand coordination. Adapted physical education and sensory integration therapy can both be valuable for children, but their goals and stages are a little different.

Please remember

Falling behind in gym class doesn't mean your child isn't trying hard enough. Controlling their own body just feels a bit more complicated and harder for them than for other kids. Before blaming athletic ability, take a look at coordination first.

Last reviewed : 2026-10-07 This article provides general information. Your child's developmental needs and treatment plan are determined through consultation and assessment.